Cat® Generator Sets Reduce Mine Costs by Millions

Share This

Mining Further

Cat® Generator Sets Reduce Mine Costs by Millions

Powering a Natural Gas Future: Stornoway Diamond Corporation

During development of the new Renard Mine, Stornoway Diamond Corporation concluded that on-site power generation would be a practical solution for their power needs. This was decided in an effort to not only combat fluctuating diesel prices, but also to reduce the mine’s environmental impact.

Their local Cat® dealer Toromont Industries produced an original power generation station, outfitted with seven Cat G3520C generators, but powered by liquified natural gas (LNG) rather than diesel. This alone reduces annual operating costs by between $8 million and $10 million while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 43%, equating to about 23,000 tons per year.

Patrick Godin, COO and director of Stornoway Diamond Corporation, calls the power generation solution a success for the mine, the first of its kind in Quebec. It’s an achievement not only for the environment, but for the people who live in the community. “The fact that we found the best technology that can be better for the environment and improve the balance sheet — that’s a win-win deal.”